Another Water Heater Smell Question

I just replaced a 20 year old electric water heater with a new American 40 gallon electric. I now have the smell problem on the hot water.

I have called American and talked to local plumbing supply companies. I get conflicting info so I'm here for help.

According to American, the new unit is supplied with a 3/4" aluminum anode rod. I've read that magnesium and aluminum cause the smell problem and zinc prevents it. Problem is, I get conflicting info about this at the local plumbing supply companies.

I'm on well water with a salt based softener tank and a separate iron treatment tank.

Will the zinc rod eliminate the smell? How long do they normally last before replacement?

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Another Water Heater Smell Question

To answer both of your questions with a single answer : It depends on what is in your water. Well water makeup varies so greatly, there's no telling what is causing the 'reaction' that is making the bad smell.